Roast Wild Duck Ducks Salt and pepper Thyme Chopped onion Oil Remove all pin feathers and obvious shot. Soak in cold, salted water for 20 minutes. Season cavity of duck with salt, pepper and a small amount of thyme. Fill cavity with chopped onion. Brush duck liberally with oil. Bake at 325 degrees F for 1 1/2 hours or until just fully cooked. Do not overcook. Use drippings for gravy and serve with wild rice.